Our knowledge of the Dinosauria is constantly changing as new fossil discoveries are made and advanced scientific techniques are employed to interpret dinosaur body and trace fossils. A new book written by Professor Michael Benton (University of Bristol) with superb illustrations by renowned palaeoartist Bob Nicholls brings to life these extraordinary reptiles. Entitled “Dinosaur Behavior” and published by Princeton University Press, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the latest dinosaur research.

Spectacular prehistoric creatures how they lived, fed, sensed the world around them and interacted with each other is vividly portrayed in this comprehensive new dinosaur book.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

“Dinosaur Behavior”

“Dinosaur Behavior” is divided into seven chapters with each one focusing on a different aspect of the Dinosauria. The first chapter provides a perspective on the dinosaurs, explaining their evolutionary origins, how scientists construct ancient worlds from the geological record and the forensic approach to fossil excavation and preparation. Subsequent chapters deal with various aspects of dinosaur biology and how behaviour can be inferred from scientific evidence.

There are over 150 beautiful illustrations by the highly respected palaeoartist Bob Nicholls. Many of these artworks were specially commissioned, helping to portray dinosaurs as active, complex animals. For example, in the chapter dealing with dinosaur locomotion the origins of powered flight are explained. The clear and concise narrative is accompanied by beautiful illustrations of the varied evolutionary paths taken by different types of dinosaur to adapt to a life in the trees.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The image (above) shows the feathered Anchiornis (top left) and the bizarre Yi qi, a scansoriopterygid with bizarre bat-like wings.

Social and Highly Active Reptiles

Author Michael Benton is a professor of vertebrate palaeontology at the University of Bristol. He is a fellow of the Royal Society. Over a long and distinguished career, he has done a great deal to inform the wider public about how our views regarding iconic dinosaurs have changed. His latest book explores the behaviour and physiology of these fascinating animals. It provides a fresh perspective on the complex lives of non-avian dinosaurs, how they fed, choose mates, raised their young, communicated and ultimately became extinct.

Aimed at the general public as well as dinosaur fans, students and academics, this is a beautifully crafted book that updates the reader on the amazing research that is providing thrilling insights into the lives of dinosaurs.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Published by Princeton University Press

“Dinosaur Behavior” is published by Princeton University Press. It will officially go on sale on the 31st of October (2023).

Published in time for the festive season, this stunningly illustrated guide to the Dinosauria would make an excellent gift.

Highly recommended.

Book Details

The Book: “Dinosaur Behavior An Illustrated Guide”

Publisher: Princeton University Press

Published October 2023 | Price: £30.00/$35.00 USD (hardback) | Pages: 222
Over 150 scientific illustrations plus colour photographs.

ISBN: 9780691244297

Visit the website of Princeton University Press: Princeton University Press. Search on the website for the author or title to find the book.